PennHIP® radiography can be performed as early as 4 months of age whereas the traditional X-ray technique for hips is not certifiable until 2 years of age. PennHIP® radiography has been found to be the best predictor of future hip arthritis development in young dogs. The following images represent radiographs of a dog with normal hips (figure 1) and of a dog with moderate to severe hip dysplasia (figure 2). However, standard radiographs (X-rays) are needed to confirm the diagnosis. Physical examination and hip palpation may aid in the diagnosis of hip dysplasia. Crepitus (a grinding feel) can occasionally be felt by placing a hand over the hip(s) while the dog is slowly walking. Older dogs will often have decreased muscle mass, stand with the rear feet close together (as if walking a tightrope) and be reluctant to go for walks, jump onto the couch or into the car, etc. Clear-cut lameness may be present but is less common. Occasionally a popping noise, or a palpable “click” are present. Lack of willingness to play, lying down after short periods of exercise, showing pain when playing or when getting up and down and walking with a stiff gait are common. Clinical signs in young dogs (about one year of age) with hip dysplasia can be quite variable. Usually, clinical signs of canine hip dysplasia develop by one year of age, but in some cases the signs become obvious later in life as osteoarthritis gradually worsens. Large dog breeds that have a relatively low incidence of hip dysplasia include the Borzoi, Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane, Greyhound and Irish Wolfhound.Ĭlinical Signs and Diagnosis of Hip Dysplasia

Not even the toy breeds are spared, although frequency is lower in small dogs. Mixed breeds are also subject to hip dysplasia. Many breeds are susceptible to hip dysplasia, although it tends to be especially common in larger dog breeds including Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Rottweilers, Saint Bernards, and so on. Numerous successful treatments for hip dysplasia are available depending on the age and size of the patient and severity of the problem. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder often beginning in puppies as young as six months of age. Usually, clinical signs of canine hip dysplasia develop by one year of age but in some dogs the signs become obvious later in life as osteoarthritis gradually worsens. The problem and resulting clinical signs ranges from mild inactivity to severe pain, lameness and immobility. Despite efforts by breeders and the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA), the prevalence of canine hip dysplasia is not decreasing.

Hip dysplacia xray shoing normal